Two 1 tuner cards (Hauppauge PVR 150) (1 Viewer)

[Rhico]

I'm thinking to buy some hardware to try Media Portal. I want to use two 1-tuner hauppauge PVR-150 cards, because I read some bad review of the dual tuner version PVR-500 (bad image quality).

I found the patch on the forum and some posts where it's confirmed MP works fine with two tuner cards, but I have still a question. Is it a good idea to use two the same tuner cards (driver conflict or other problems ??) or better to use two different brands of tuners (I found some posts with such a config)

Can someone tell me also the difference between the PVR-150 and PVR-150MCE ?
Is it just the remote control they add to the MCE package or also some additional functionality ?

TIA everyone !

Regards,
Rhico

 

[Rhico]

I found already an answer on my last question

There are some important differences between the models !!
Superb explanation :
http://www.diy-pvr-dvr-htpc.com/index.php/Difference_Between_Retail_and_MCE_Hauppauge_cards

 

[Elconejo]

I think its better to use the 500 because it has an internal splitter of the signal. If you use two separate card it will cost more and you will have a worse picture (not 100% sure).

I got a Hauppauge PVR USB2 at the moment and i'm also thinking to buy a Hauppauge PVR500.

 

[Rhico]

I've changed my mind and will try the PVR-350 because it has a scart out connector (in fact a s-video out with included converter cable to scart)
It's a little expensiver than a 150, but it has a mpg2 decoder (so to show the image), which will save me CPU power (= heat) and save me a descent VGA card to output the signal to my TV (because I will use the scart out).

If everything turns well, maybe I will buy a second card (PVR-150) later just to have the dual tuner functionality

note : a nice site with interesting information :
http://www.cask-of-amontillado.com/htpc.html

 

[Brocklander]

None of the added 350 functionality works with Media Portal (video out, decoder). Get a 500MCE, I love mine!

 

[NLS]

I have PVR-350 and I have never used it's tv-out (and hardware decoder for that port). I never missed them. Hardly any program can use them.

Don't expect to see MP menu on it. You will still use your VGA card tv-out.

Better save for a better TV. You'll think you were on a different planet when you connect your HTPC to a nice LCD with DVI/HDMI.

 

[Rhico]

None of the added 350 functionality works with Media Portal (video out, decoder)

Damn, good to know. Thx for the info.

 

[Elconejo]

Yesterday i got my new haupauge 500MCE. Together with my Hauppauge PVR USB2, i got now 3 analog tunercards. I installed the 500 in 5min and it worked perfect !
This card rocks !